O'Sullivan's world title dream comes up short as champion Lara's class tells in Brooklyn

Cork fighter is knocked down in the fourth round but defiantly stands tall until an eighth-round stoppage brings his WBA Middleweight challenge to an end

Making his connection: Champion Erislandy Lara lands a heavy punch on Gary 'Spike' O'Sullivan during their bout in Brooklyn on Saturday night. Pic: Amanda Westcott/Showtime

Gary 'Spike' O'Sullivan’s world title shot crashed to earth in the eighth round on Saturday night in Brooklyn after the referee stepped in to stop a mostly one-sided contest.

Cuban Erislandy 'The American Dream' Lara retained his WBA Middleweight belt with an impressive display that had him comfortable through seven and a half rounds.